Drone strikes have reportedly targeted Burundian National Defence Force (FDNB) reinforcements in Fizi territory, South Kivu, according to local sources. An attack on Lake Tanganyika, off the Ubwari peninsula, reportedly bombed a boat transporting soldiers. These incidents occurred as Burundian forces were being moved to reinforce positions in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, amidst ongoing conflict in the region. The strikes signify an escalation in hostilities, directly impacting deployed personnel and noting the increasing dangers faced by troops in the volatile region. Local sources indicate that these drone strikes specifically targeted Burundian National Defence Force (FDNB) reinforcements.
Escalating Violence in South Kivu
These reports of drone attacks come amidst recent military setbacks for the FARDC, FDNB, and Wazalendo militia against Twirwaneho fighters allied with the AFC/M23. During the past week, three vehicles transporting munitions and Burundian soldiers were reportedly targeted by drones in Mulima. This specific incident adds to the growing evidence of sophisticated weaponry being deployed in the conflict zone. Soldiers from the FARDC and FDNB reportedly retreated from the Rugezi, Kakenge, and Point Zéro sectors, moving towards Mukera or Misisi, indicating significant pressure on their defensive lines. The Burundian army is actively engaged in fighting alongside the FARDC and Wazalendo militia against the AFC/M23 in the region, forming a key part of the multinational effort to stabilize eastern Congo. The targeting of military convoys and personnel shows the intensity of the ongoing confrontations.
Burundi's Deepening Engagement
The Burundian National Defence Force (FDNB) reinforcements were dispatched to bolster positions held by the FARDC, FDNB, and Wazalendo militia following the loss of several localities, including Point Zéro, Kakenge, Rubemba, Mikenge, and Kalongi. The strategic importance of these lost areas has necessitated a strong response from the allied forces. This deployment is part of a broader commitment that saw over 29,000 Burundian soldiers stationed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo between August 2022 and December 2025, demonstrating Burundi's substantial contribution to regional security efforts. Since February, the FDNB, FARDC, and Wazalendo forces have reportedly received substantial human and material reinforcements to counter ongoing hostilities, reflecting a concerted effort to regain lost ground and push back against the AFC/M23 and its allies. The Burundian intervention has not been without significant losses, showing the perilous nature of the mission. In December 2025, during clashes on the Rusizi plain, the FDNB reported the death of a colonel, marking the highest-ranking Burundian officer killed in combat since the start of their engagement in the region. This incident served as a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict for Burundian forces.
Regional Dynamics and Human Cost
The recent drone strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of several soldiers, including a colonel and a major from the Burundian National Defence Force (FDNB). These fatalities show the mounting human cost of the ongoing conflict for Burundian forces operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, noting the severe risks involved in their deployment. The loss of high-ranking officers indicates the precision and impact of these alleged drone attacks.
A UN experts' report, published in December 2025, noted the complex regional dynamics by mentioning the presence of 5,000 to 7,000 Rwandan soldiers fighting alongside the AFC/M23. This reported involvement of Rwandan forces adds another dimension to the protracted conflict in eastern Congo, suggesting a broader regional entanglement beyond the immediate belligerents. This external support potentially contributes to the AFC/M23's operational capabilities and resilience.
Internally, Burundi has also faced challenges related to its military deployment. At least 272 Burundian soldiers are currently serving sentences, some up to life imprisonment, for refusing orders to be sent to fight in the DRC. This indicates significant dissent within the ranks regarding the mission, suggesting internal pressures and a potential reluctance among some soldiers to participate in the cross-border operations. The severity of the sentences reflects the Burundian government's determination to maintain discipline and commitment to the military intervention despite internal opposition.